Big O: The Life and Times of Olsen Filipaina

The Big O by Patrick Skene is the story of Olsen Filipaina, a New Zealand Hall of Fame rugby league legend who was a pathfinder for the Maori and Pasifika players who today dominate the Australian National Rugby League.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 336 pages
Publication date: 21 May 2020
Publisher: Upstart Press Ltd

The Big O, written by Patrick Skene, is a captivating tale that delves into the life and career of Olsen Filipaina, a New Zealand Hall of Fame rugby league legend who played a pivotal role in paving the way for Maori and Pasifika players to dominate the Australian National Rugby League. Filipaina's remarkable journey spans a span of 29 Tests for New Zealand and over 100 first-grade NSWRL games, captivating the rugby league community with his exceptional skills and captivating personality. To fans, he was affectionately known as the Galloping Garbo, a working-class hero who thrilled crowds with his thrilling performances even during his breaks as a garbageman. To opponents, who feared his Polynesian power game, he was the formidable The Big O. Coaches and critics alike marveled at his enigmatic nature, referring to him simply as Olsen the enigma. Featured within the book are some of the pivotal figures of 1980s Australia and New Zealand sport, including Sir Graham Lowe, Arthur Beetson, Roy Masters, Sir Peter Leitch, David Tua, Sir Bryan Williams, Wayne Pearce, Sir Michael Jones, John Ribot, Mark Graham, David Lange, and NRL Immortal Wally Lewis, who for the first time share their candid thoughts on being outplayed by Filipaina during the 1985 Test series. The Big O takes readers on a journey from Filipaina's humble upbringing in working-class South Auckland to his triumph over depression, racism, and cultural dislocation in Sydney. It follows his remarkable Cinderella story, as he rises to prominence with the New Zealand Kiwis, achieving unprecedented success on the international stage. Forty years after Filipaina's debut in Australian rugby league, Skene weaves a poignant and timely narrative that explores the life and legacy of this humble and principled man. Through his story, readers gain a deeper understanding of the cultural changes that have reshaped the game of rugby league, highlighting the importance of diversity, inclusion, and resilience. The Big O is a captivating tale that blends resilience, redemption, bravery, and love, offering a profound reflection on the human spirit and the power of perseverance. By delving into the life and career of Olsen Filipaina, this book provides a valuable insight into the history and evolution of rugby league, while also inspiring readers to embrace their own unique journeys and overcome adversity.

Weight: 522g
Dimension: 154 x 234 x 28 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781988516844